Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting and Finance. Programme Specification

Transcription

1 College of Business Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting and Finance Programme Specification Valid from September 2012 JACS code N400 Programme code N400 Valid for delivery at University of Derby (Kedleston Road) Botswana Accountancy College, Gabarone HELP Academy, Kuala Lumpur Aventis School of Management, Singapore (Top-Up only) 1

2 PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION SECTION ONE: GENERAL INFORMATION Programme Title Undergraduate BA (Honours) in Accounting and Finance Award title and interim awards Final Award: Undergraduate BA (Honours) in Accounting and Finance BA in Accounting and Finance Interim Awards: Undergraduate Certificate of Higher Education Accounting and Finance Diploma of Higher Education Accounting and Finance Mode of Study Full-time. Part-time module study is available for students who wish to pursue this degree over a longer time period. Programme start date/review date Start Date: September 2012 Period of Validation: Indefinite Awarding Institution University of Derby College Managing the Programme College of Business 2

3 Institution(s) Delivering the Programme University of Derby Botswana Accountancy College, Gabarone HELP Academy, Kuala Lumpur Aventis School of Management, Singapore (Top-Up only) Relevant external subject benchmark statement(s) Quality Assurance Agency s (QAA) Subject Benchmarks Statement for Accounting 2007 External Accreditation/Recognition Certain modules within the Accounting & Finance programme address the professional body requirements regarding content and assessment and hence are eligible for exemptions. Such bodies include the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants, England and Wales (ICAEW). The level of exemption awarded is dependent on the modules studied. For those students who do not wish to gain exemptions, the modules are available in an alternative assessment format. JACS Code(s) N400 (FT Mode) Programme specification last updated June

4 SECTION TWO: OVERVIEW AND PROGRAMME AIMS BA (Honours) Accounting and Finance Overview 1 The BA (Honours) Accounting and Finance degree aims to provide a programme of study to equip you with an accounting and general business education which will better enable you to take up management positions within industry and commerce. In particular it seeks to equip you with the knowledge and skill to pursue a career in accounting with the ability to become qualified accountants. The degree has been designed to allow greater opportunity for employability to be reflected in graduates as an outcome of their commitment to their studies. In order to achieve this aim we seek to offer an accounting curriculum that is up to date, vocationally relevant, challenging and reflects the complex and challenging nature of the accounting and business environment. At the completion of the Accounting and Finance programme you will gain significant exemptions from the professional accounting bodies. This has helped employability of Derby graduates and will be a strong part of their offering. 2 This degree is part of the Undergraduate Business Programme (UBP) offering of the Derby Business School and responds to the United Kingdom 2007 QAA benchmark statement for the subject of Accounting (QAA /07). Appendix 3 provides an analysis of the relationship between this programme s curriculum and the relevant QAA benchmarks. The generic aims of the programme, taken from the QAA document are: 2.1 Study how the design, operation and validation of accounting systems affect, and are affected by individuals, organisation, markets, society and the environment. 2.2 The provision and analysis of information for a variety of decision-making, accountability, managerial, regulatory and resources allocation purposes. Programme Aims In addition to the generic aims of the UBP the BA (Honours) Accounting and Finance degree has the following aims. Aims Phase To provide the necessary foundation and context where specialist accounting knowledge and skills can be developed within an appropriate business framework. 3.2 To progressively develop vocational skills alongside a treatment of management process and theory Aims Phase To broaden analysis and application of techniques in different sectors and encourage independence of thought 4.2 To promote teamwork, leadership skills and project management skills 4.3 To continue the development of key skills and career planning thus increasing employability. 4

5 Aims Phase To be effective in their first post qualification appointment through study of leading edge and contemporary business and accounting issues 5.2 To develop sensitivity in working within in a multi-cultural context and with a multicultural workforce 5.3 To ensure that students demonstrate mastery of general accounting and business concepts, skills and techniques through research, critical analysis, evaluation and suggested solutions to real management problems, thus helping to be increasingly employable 5.4 To critically evaluate strategic business issues 6 In addition, the Accounting subject aims to: 6.1 Provide a programme of study that equips students with an accounting and general business education with the ability to subsequently become qualified accountants 6.2 Offer students an accounting curriculum that is up to date, vocationally relevant, challenging and reflects the complex and challenging nature of the accounting and business environment. 6.3 Help to prepare a student for a career in a rapidly changing business and social environment. 6.4 Provide a challenging, integrated programme of study that equips students with a sound general knowledge of accounting. 6.5 Develop progressively cognitive, intellectual and practical skills within a relevant business context. 6.6 Develop progressively transferable graduate skills as a foundation for lifelong learning. 6.7 Develop personal, self-learning and team-working skills necessary for successful employment in accounting or business and management. 6.8 Develop increasingly employable graduates in the discipline of accounting and related professions. 5

6 SECTION THREE: PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOMES All learning outcomes have been developed with respect to FHEQ and the University s guidance on Learning, Teaching and Assessment. Programme Learning Outcomes: BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance 7 Knowledge and Understanding 7.1 Phase 1 1. The identification and prioritisation of personal development needs. 2. The development and application of study skills techniques. 3. Understand the focus and responsibility of key business functions and how these might interrelate with accounting activities/ principles. 4. Understand the principles of Financial and Management Accounting, their history and development. 5. Gain an appreciation of the international environment in which accountants operates. 7.2 Phase 2 1. Apply accounting principles from the disciplines of financial accounting, management accounting, financial management, taxation and audit (if option modules taken) to various situations likely to be encountered by an accounting professional. 2. Investigate the socio-economic, organisational, legal and ethical aspects that inform and affect the practice of accounting. 3. Evaluate and explore possible research projects and assess their suitability/feasibility. 7.3 Phase 3 1. Analyse the decision support that can be provided by the accounting discipline for business operations and strategy. 2. Reflect on the fit, or lack of it, between accounting theory/concepts and practice. 3. Provide financial and non-financial information to people within organisations to make better decisions in order to enhance organisational control and effectiveness. 4. Adopt a strategically informed position when considering complex accounting situations/issues. 5. Critically evaluate the extensive accounting knowledge and skills base in order to apply it appropriately. 8 Intellectual Skills 8.1 Phase 1 1. Understanding of basic accounting principles and concepts and their application to business. 2. Problem solving using a variety of techniques. 3. Able to engage in discussion and debate and express informed personal opinions. 8.2 Phase 2 1. Application and evaluation of appropriate techniques of analysis. 6

7 2. Investigation of current issues in accounting. 3. Provide advice to management on a variety of business situations. 8.3 Phase 3 1. Critically analyse a business situation and apply appropriate techniques in order to present a reasoned solution. 2. Identify, analyse and discuss current business issues. 3. Evaluate possible alternative scenarios and provide a reasoned, coherent argument as to the possible alternative solutions. 9 Practical and Subject Specific Skills 9.1 At and from phase 1 1. Record and explain financial transactions using accepted principles and conventions and prepare financial statements to satisfy the needs of users. 2. Retrieve, analyse and select information from a diverse range of sources to solve business problems. 3. Understand and apply costing/management accounting concepts and techniques to business situations and produce costing/ management accounting reports to support management in decision-making, planning and control. 4. Use appropriate accounting terminology, concepts, theory and techniques within a variety of settings. 9.2 At and from phase 2 1. Investigate current audit issues and apply the techniques used in the decisionmaking process and evaluation of evidence. 2. Advise on the effects of taxation for a variety of personal and/or business situations 3. Propose a research project that could effectively explore some issue related to accounting. 4. Access information, networks and skills that will enable them to target and hopefully secure appropriate accountancy orientated work placements.* 5. Apply their accountancy/business knowledge and skills base within the work environment.* 6. Initiate research activity if a suitable research project is identified.* * Placement outcome if optional placement undertaken. 10 Transferable Skills 10.1 At and from phase 1, students will progressively improve the following: 1. Utilise a variety of presentation formats to communicate. 2. Use information technology to retrieve, analyse and present data. 3. Manage time and work to deadlines. 4. Work independently. 5. Work effectively and constructively as part of a group. 6. Assess the relevance and importance of the work and ideas of others. 11. The programme learning outcomes are mapped against modules in Appendix 2 7

8 SECTION FOUR: PROGRAMME STRUCTURE Structure and Curriculum 11 The BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance programme is designed for study on a full-time basis with one intake in the September of each year. This programme has been designed with the intention of providing you with the knowledge and skills required for somebody wishing to follow a career as a professional accountant, but many will find it equally useful for a career in general business and management. It is also intended that you should achieve all of the attributes required of a modern undergraduate student. We designed the programme with this foremost in our minds. Whilst this degree meets the requirements of QAA benchmarks and professional benchmarks we felt that they were supportive to providing a good undergraduate student experience and that if a programme was designed well it would naturally meet these benchmarks. We have been mindful in writing the programme that some students may wish to follow a degree that draws on the expertise of the accounting team in some financial areas that are outside of the professional exemption disciplines offered, but are still nevertheless valuable study areas that contribute to rewarding career options other than becoming professional accountants. The modules have been chosen to give you the basic knowledge, background and skills during your first year. During your second year on the single honours, you will learn more advanced techniques and be introduced to some more advance specialisms within the accounting subject whilst at the same time developing your academic, interpersonal and reflective skills. There is an option to undertake a work placement year. 12 In the final year you will be tackling and discussing complicated accounting and ethical issues. An option module is offered at year two, and in the final year you may pursue two optional modules (subject to sufficient pre-requisite knowledge). Overall, a high level of employability is encouraged aided by other supporting departments within the university. 13 Students who do not complete the final stage may receive a Certificate of Higher Education (Level 4) after completing the first year of studies; a Diploma in Higher Education (Level 5) after completing two years worth of studies, or a Bachelor degree without honours (termed Unclassified) by completing levels 4 and 5, and 60 credits at level A work placement is available between Phases 2, and 3, the placement will be for a minimum duration of nine months and will be supported by the placement officer and tutorials within Phase 2, to assist in the location of a suitable placement and during the placement, by a placement tutor. 8

9 BA (Honours) Accounting and Finance Module Title Credits Status Level 4 Market Economics and Key Mathematical Concepts 20 Prescribed Introduction to Operations Management and IT 20 Prescribed Introduction to Financial Accounting 20 Core Introduction to Management Accounting 20 Core Law for Accounting 20 Prescribed Academic Skills for Accounting and Economics 20 Prescribed Level 5 Management Accounting (Exam Route) 20 Core Business Taxation 20 Prescribed Employability and Personal Development 20 Prescribed Financial Accounting (Exam Route) 20 Core Financial Management (Exam Route) 20 Core Audit & Assurance (Exam Route) 20 Prescribed Level 6 Financial Strategy (Exam Route) 20 Optional Prescribed Financial Strategy (Non Exam Route) 20 Optional Prescribed Management Accounting - Performance Evaluation (Exam 20 Optional Prescribed Route) Management Accounting Performance Evaluation (Non 20 Optional Prescribed Exam Route) Issues in Global Business & Corporate Accountability 40 Option Independent Study 40 Option Personal Taxation (Exam Route) 20 Option Personal Taxation (Non Exam Route) 20 Option Contemporary Reporting Issues 20 Option Investing & Financial Markets 20 Option Financial Reporting (Exam Route) 20 Option Financial Reporting (Non Exam Route) 20 Option Financial Statement Analysis 20 Option (Collaborative Students Only) Developing Employability from the Placement Experience 20 Option Exam Route modules are those which offer the opportunity to apply for exemptions from the Professional Accounting Bodies, whose requirements make it necessary to use formal timeconstrained examinations throughout the Programme. The alternative module covers the same learning outcomes with assessment modes other than formal time-constrained examinations. Following the completion of each year, you will be provided with support and guidance from your personal / year tutors to enable you to optimise your choice of modules. Guidance provided will take account of outcomes of the prior year s progress and future career aspirations. The module route available will be subject to agreement with your tutor and continued progress. Progress will be reviewed at the end of each semester to ensure your continued success on the programme. 9

10 BA (HONS) ACCOUNTING & FINANCE Stage 1 Semester 1 Academic Skills for Accounting (20 credits) Introduction to Financial Accounting (20 credits) Market Economics And Key Mathematical Concepts (20 credits) Stage 1 Semester 2 Introduction to Operations Management and IT (20 credits) Introduction to Management Accounting (20 credits) Law for Accounting (20 credits) Stage 2 Semester 1 Financial Accounting (Exam Route)(20 credits) Employability and Personal Development (20 credits) Financial Management (Exam route) (20 credits) Stage 2 Semester 2 Management Accounting (Exam route) (20 credits) Business Taxation (20 credits) Audit and Assurance (Exam Route) (20 credits) OPTIONAL PLACEMENT YEAR Stage 3 Semester 1 Stage 3 Semester 2 *Management Accounting Performance Evaluation (20 Credits) *Financial Strategy (20 credits) Option (20 credits) Option (20 credits) Issues in Global Business & Corporate Accountability (40 credits) Year Through Independent Study (40 credits) Year Through 10

11 * Signifies that there is a choice between exam route which is accredited by the professional accounting bodies ACCA and CIMA, and a non exam route which is not accredited. The content and mode of delivery is the same, it is just the assessment strategy that is different Stage 3 Options: SEMESTER 1 Developing Employability from the Placement Experience Financial Statement Analysis (Collab Students Only) * Personal Taxation Contemporary Reporting Issues Stage 3 Options: SEMESTER 2 Investing & Financial Markets *Financial Reporting 11

12 Personal Development Planning (PDP) 15 The programme team regard the integration of PDP into the programme as an essential requirement towards supporting student centred learning. This is essential also to one of the main outcomes of student participation upon the degree that of employability. This is promoted through involvement upon these core modules. On the programme PDP will be embedded within the programme at all levels and though the use of specific modules at levels four, five and six. You will be given the opportunity to undertake a skills audit and other diagnostic testing to discover, amongst other things, your learning style and an assessment of your own personal strengths and weaknesses. You will be assigned a personal tutor who will assist you in ensuring that you maximize the opportunities provided by PDP. During induction of each subsequent year the programme leader or personal tutor will review your current progress and assist you in planning for the future and discuss any remedial action that may be necessary. During your Level 5 studies you will continue to develop your skills and will receive input from the Careers Development Centre and the professional accounting bodies in terms of career development. In your final year you will be able to demonstrate the skills and technique required for continuous independent learning. All of the lecturers are professionally qualified with many years of experience in different aspects and areas of accounting; they are always available to discuss possible career and development options. There is also a placement opportunity between your second and third years of study where you can apply the skills you have learned to the real world and, when you return to your studies, you can use your experience to better inform your application of the higher level skills to business and accounting problems. 16 In the final phase, PDP is embedded throughout all of the modules but is best evidenced through the Independent Study module or the Issues in Global Business and Corporate Accountability modules. Again, clear evidence of students abilities aids them with employability. SECTION FIVE: PROGRAMME DELIVERY Learning and Teaching Methods 17 At Level 4, you will begin to acquire the basic skills, assumptions and knowledge underlying the subject of accounting. You will apply this knowledge to producing basic accounts and providing information for decision making purposes. You will also study the underpinning subjects of economics and law necessary to understand the socioeconomic environment within which the accountant operates. Quantitative techniques and information technology skills will help you with the application of your accounting skills. At Level 5, you will study more advanced accounting topics and the situations which you are required to analyse and apply your knowledge to will become more complex. You will also be introduced to how firms raise and use finance, the auditing of accounts (if this option is taken) and the implications and effects of taxation. At Level 6, you will be applying the skills you have learned to much more complicated scenarios and exploring and developing alternative approaches to accounting problems and global issues. There are various options available in your final year to enable you to specialise in the risks associated with financing, personal taxation, pensions and financial markets to name but a few. You will be expected to demonstrate your attainment of independent scholarship through research of your own choice relating to the accounting and finance areas, with the production of a dissertation or consultancy report. Throughout your studies you will be exposed to industry standard software and have the opportunity to use accounting software. 12

13 18 Where any additional support needs have been identified, the Programme Leader will co-ordinate responses required by individual students` care plans. The teaching and learning strategy will be adapted to ensure that the student is provided with the same level of opportunity for teaching, learning and personal development no matter what their previous experience or method of study. 19 At Levels 4 and 5, you will learn mainly by formal lectures, tutorials and workshop where you will receive a lot of direction and feedback on your work. In Level 5, you will be expected to work more independently, with less input until at Level 6, you will be expected to be more in charge of your own learning with staff being there to advise and direct your studies. 20 The development of the autonomous and independent learner is further enhanced by a range of technology enhanced learning tools and activities to support the teaching and learning strategy. 21 All students are required to comply with research governance and ethics principles whilst undertaking their programme of study. This is of particular importance when conducting research involving other people e.g. for module assessments or Independent Study. Information on these principles can be found on the University web site at Assessment 22 The assessments are how you can demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes previously described. At Level 4, in the accounting subjects we use a range of computer based assessments to help you gauge your own level of learning. These assessments give you feedback on how you have done so that it helps your learning in a constructive way. In other modules there will be more traditional essays and reports to submit. Whilst we appreciate that report writing and other skills are best demonstrated by producing coursework it is a fact that to become a qualified accountant you will need to be able to pass examinations. This is one of the reasons why at Levels 5 and 6, examinations are the normal means of assessment for the exempt modules. You will be exposed to longer and more complex examinations as your studies progress. Exams are not just regurgitation of facts they will involve you applying your knowledge to scenarios and producing valid solutions to increasingly complex situations. Whilst examination is the predominant mode of assessment we have tried to include alternative methods of assessment such as essays, business reports, portfolios and presentations. One of the key aims of any undergraduate programme is to produce an independent learner capable of properly managing their time and resources to identify issues, decide how to collect and analyse evidence and then come to reasoned conclusions based on that evidence; this is specifically achieved through the submission of an Independent Studies dissertation or consultancy report on the Accounting and Finance degree. 23 Assessments for all modules have been designed to be inclusive for all students. The Professional Bodies requirements make it necessary to use formal time-constrained examinations for exempt modules throughout the Programme. 24 This programme operates within the University s Regulatory Framework and conforms to its regulations on assessment. 13

14 SECTION SIX: ADMISSIONS Process 25 The primary function of the admissions process is to ensure that there are grounds for believing that you are adequately prepared and will successfully complete the programme of study leading to the intended award. Criteria If you are a non-standard entrant you may be interviewed and counselled before being offered a place to ensure that you have the necessary capacity for critical awareness and reflection. 26 Normal entry qualifications would include: Passes at A Level in two or more subjects, supported by passes at Grade C in a further 3-5 GCSE subjects or level 2/3 Key Skills equivalents including English and Maths at grade C or above. BTEC National Certificate / Diploma, units NVQ, SQA Satisfactory completion of an Access to HE Diploma programme or Foundation Programme Open University credits Advanced Diplomas: The University will take the level 2 diploma as the equivalent to GCSEs and the level 3 diploma as the equivalent to A levels. Offers to students taking diplomas will be made in terms of tariff points. For entry to degrees, students are recommended to take the Advanced Diploma (principal, generic/core learning and specialist/additional learning). Scottish Highers or Irish Leaving Certificate OCR Nationals International Baccalaureate Any other recognised equivalent qualifications. Overseas qualifications equivalent to the above Botswana Accountancy College Foundation Programme or equivalent AAT Intermediate (NVQ Level 3) 27 Entry with Advanced Standing o Entry to any other stage of the programme may be possible subject to the University s Accreditation of Prior Learning procedures or through the possession of related qualifications which include. o AAT Technician (NVQ Level 5) would be allowed to enter at Level 5 14

15 o Students who have partially completed the professional examinations of recognised Accountancy Bodies will receive entry with advanced standing according to their achievements. o Students who have completed all of the professional examinations of a professional accounting body will normally be admitted to the final year and have to study the Independent studies or corporate accountability module and two further modules. 28 An applicant s significant life and work experience can be taken as the equivalent to traditional qualifications. This will be assessed under the University s Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) procedures. This would normally involve the collection and preparation of a portfolio of evidence and an interview. 29 We welcome and encourage applications from people of all ages as long as they can be considered adequately prepared to succeed on the programme. If students have few or no formal qualifications, they may be able to gain entry to the programme if they have the required communication and learning skills as well as the knowledge, experience and motivation to succeed. All students will be asked to provide evidence of academic potential and commitment to confirm their ability to undertake the programme, and will be interviewed. 30 Students who are not native speakers of English will be required to demonstrate a level of proficiency adequate for study at Master s level, including carrying out applied, organization based research. This will generally be assessed by one of the recognized international tests in English proficiency such as IELTS with a standard score of 6.5 and a minimum of

16 SECTION SEVEN: STUDENT SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE 31 For all programmes there is a substantial induction period. The induction includes introduction to the programme leader and personal tutors. There is a talk provided by the Student Support and Information Services, the Student Union and the Student Liaison Officer. Your Personal Tutor will give you advice on academic matters and can refer you to qualified counsellors for other personal or financial problems. The details of these support services can be found in your Programme Handbook which you will receive at induction. 32 Where students have additional needs you will be provided with a support plan which will be communicated to all of your tutors. We make every endeavour to ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to support you in your studies. 33 Throughout the programme, students will be provided with support and guidance by their Personal Tutor and Programme Leader to ensure the appropriate modules are selected in order to optimise individual outcomes. The opportunity to undertake Nonexempt modules recognises that not all students wish to undertake additional studies to qualify as an accountant. The PDP process outlined in section 4 will facilitate this support. 34 Students who decide to complete a placement between Phases 2 and 3 will be supported by full-time placement officer who will assist in finding a placement for you. During your placement you will be assigned a placement tutor who will assist you in resolving any issues with your employer give advice about appropriate areas of activity and ensure that Health and Safety procedures are being complied with. 35 Student feedback on the Programme will be collected through informal feedback during the year and through formal processes at the end of each semester. 36 Students who join the Programme with advanced standing, particularly at the Final Phase are able to access a range of on-line tutorials to enhance their study skills ( Among the tutorials are those specifically designed to help students with preparation for the Independent Studies module. SECTION EIGHT: POST PROGRAMME OPPORTUNITIES 37 There is a consistent demand for accounting graduates; employability is at the forefront of our thinking upon the design of this programme. Our past students have gone on to work for local public practices, large multinational accounting firms and accounting careers within merchant banks and other large businesses. As an accountant you will have the opportunity to work in many diverse fields with work locations available globally. Whilst the demand for accounting graduates does vary from times to time, whether there is a boom or downturn in the economy accountants are always needed. On completion of the Accounting and Finance programme you will be able to claim significant exemptions from the professional accounting bodies thus shortening the times required to become a fully qualified member of your chosen professional body. Should you wish, there are many opportunities to go onto further study, either on more specialist financial masters programmes or onto the more generalist MBA from all the accounting degrees offered. SECTION NINE: EMPLOYER LINKS 16

17 38 We have consulted with employers from both the Accounting sector and with employers from the business sector who employ accountants within their operations. These needs and opinions have been taken into account in the development of the programme. In particular, discussions have been have taken place with Lubrizol who have provided placement opportunities and then full time position for several of our previous students and Bates Weston, who sponsor an award for the best accounting student. Discussions with SME accounting firms identified the need for a route without significant exemptions from the accounting bodies. This will also support those students who do not wish to pursue a career in accountancy. 39 The structure and content of the programme have been informed with reference to the syllabi of CIMA, ACCA, CIPFA, ICAEW, IFA and CPA Australia programmes, in order to ensure that our graduates have the option to receive the maximum exemptions available. 17

18 SKILLS FRAMEWORK MAPPING The following mapping illustrates that sufficient opportunities have been provided for the progressive development key skills identified in the University of Derby Skills Framework identified against Level 4, 5 and 6 modules. Level 4 Modules Communication Application of Numbers Problem Solving Working with Others Information Technology Improving Own Learning and Performance Market Economics and Key Mathematical Concepts X X X Introduction to Operations Management and IT X X X X X Introduction to Financial Accounting X X X Introduction to Management Accounting X X X X Law for Accounting X X X Academic Skills for Accounting and Economics X X X X X 18

19 Level 5 Modules Communication Application of Numbers Problem Solving Working with Others Information Technology Improving Own Learning and Performance Management Accounting (Exam Route) X X X X X Business Taxation X X X X Employability and Personal Development X X X X X Financial Accounting (Exam route) X X X Financial Management (Exam Route) X X X Audit and Assurance (Exam Route) X X X X X 19

20 Level 6 Modules Communication Application of Numbers Problem Solving Working with Others Information Technology Improving Own Learning and Performance Financial Strategy X X X X Management Accounting Performance Evaluation X X X X X Independent Study X X X X Personal Taxation X X X X X Contemporary Reporting Issues x x x Issues in Global Business and Corporate Accountability X X X X X X Investing and Financial Markets X X X Financial Reporting Theory X X Financial Statement Analysis X X X X Independent Studies X X X X X Developing Employability from the Placement X X X X 20

21 APPENDIX 2 CURRICULUM MAP Level 4 Modules Market Economics and Key Mathematical Concepts Introduction to Operations Management and IT Introduction to Financial Accounting Introduction to Management Accounting X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Law for Accounting X X X X X X X X X X X Academic Skills for Accounting and economics X X X X X X X X X X X 21

22 Level 5 Modules Management Accounting (Exam Route) X X X X X X X X X X X X X Business Taxation X X X X X X X X X X X X Employability and Personal Development Financial Accounting (Exam Route) Financial Management (Exam Route) Audit and Assurance (Exam Route) X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 22

23 Level 6 Modules Financial Strategy X X X X X X X X X X X X Management Accounting Performance Evaluation X X X X X X X X X X X X X Personal Taxation X X X X X X X X X X X X X Issues in Global Business and Corporate Accountability X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Independent Studies X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Investing and Financial Markets Financial Reporting Theory Financial Statement Analysis Contemporary Reporting Issues Developing Employability from the Placement Experience X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Accounting and X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 23

24 Finance Professional Development 3 24

25 APPENDIX 3 BENCHMARK ANALYSIS These tables summarises the key features of the BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance, with the particular aim of demonstrating the mapping between the programme learning outcomes and the QAA benchmark statement for the subject of Accounting. Level 4 Modules Programme Outcome Aspect of the subject benchmark statement QAA /07 addressed Accounting 2007 Knowledge and Understanding The identification and prioritisation of personal development needs B The development and application of study skills techniques B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6,B7, B Understand the focus and responsibility of key business functions and how these might interrelate with accounting A1, A2, A7 activities / principles Understand the principles of Financial and Management Accounting, their history and development A1, A3, A5, A6, A Gain an appreciation of the international environment in which accountants operate A1, A7 Intellectual Skills Understanding of basic accounting principles and concepts and their application to business A2, A3, A4, A5, A Problem solving using a variety of techniques A2, A3, A4, A6, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B Able to engage in discussion and debate and express informed personal opinions B1, B8 Practical and Subject Specific Skills Record and explain financial transactions using accepted principles and conventions and prepare financial statements to satisfy a range of users A2, A3, A4, B2, B3, B5, B6, B Retrieve, analyse and select information from a diverse range of sources to solve business problems B2, B3, B5, B6, B Understand and apply costing/management accounting concepts and techniques business situations and produce costing / management reports to support management in decision making, planning and control Use appropriate accounting terminology, concepts, theory and techniques within a variety of settings A1, A2, A3, A5, A6, A7 Transferrable Skills Utilise a variety of presentation formats to communicate. B Use information technology to retrieve, analyse and present data. B Manage time and work to deadlines. B Work independently, demonstrating self-direction. B Work effectively and constructively as part of a group. B Self appraise and reflect on the application of theory to practice B1, B2, B4, B7, B8 A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B8 25

26 Level 5 Modules Programme Outcome Knowledge and Understanding Apply accounting principles from the disciplines of financial accounting, management accounting, financial management, taxation an audit if option modules taken) to various situations likely to be encountered by an accounting professional Investigate socio-economic, organisational, legal and ethical aspects that inform and affect the practice of Aspect of the subject benchmark statement QAA /07 addressed Accounting 2007 A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, B1, B2, B3, B5, B7 A1, A5, A7, B1 accounting Evaluate and explore possible research projects and assess their suitability / feasibility A1, A7, B1, B2, B3, B4, B7, B8 Intellectual Skills Application and evaluation of appropriate techniques of analysis A2, A3, A4, B1, B2, B3, B Investigation of current issues in accounting A1, A5, A6, B1, B Provide advice to management on a variety of business situations A1, A2, A3, A4, A7, B7 Practical and subject specific skills Investigate current audit issues and apply the techniques used in the decision-making process and evaluation of evidence A1, A5, A7, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B Advise on the effects of taxation from a variety of personal and / or business situations A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A7, B1, B Propose a research project that could effectively explore some issue related to accounting B1, B4, B Access information, networks and skills that will enable them to target and hopefully secure appropriate A1, B4, B8 accountancy orientated work placements Apply their accountancy / business knowledge and skills base within the work environment A1, A7, B4, B Initiate research activity if a suitable research project is identified B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8 Transferrable skills Utilise a variety of presentation formats to communicate. B Use information technology to retrieve, analyse and present data. B Manage time and work to deadlines. B Work independently, demonstrating self-direction. B Work effectively and constructively as part of a group. B Self appraise and reflect on the application of theory to practice B1, B2, B4, B7, B8 26

27 Level 6 Modules Programme Outcome Aspect of the subject benchmark statement QAA /07 addressed Accounting 2007 Knowledge and Understanding Analyse the decision support that can be provided by the accounting discipline for business operations and strategy A2, A3, A4, B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B Reflect on the fit, or lack of it, between accounting theory / concepts and practice A1, A5, A6, A7, B1, B3, B7, B Provide financial and non-financial information to people within organisations to make better decisions in order to enhance organisational control and effectiveness A1, A2, A3, A4, A7, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B Adopt a strategically informed position when considering complex accounting situations / issues A1, A5, A6, B1, B4, B7, B Critically evaluate the extensive accounting knowledge and skills based in order to apply it appropriately A1, A5, A6, A7, B1, B7, B8 Intellectual skills Critically analyse a business situation and apply appropriate techniques in order to present a reasoned solution A2, A3, A4, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B Identify, analyse and discuss current business issues A2, A3, A4, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B Evaluate possible alternative scenarios and provide a reasoned coherent argument as to the possible alternative A2, A3, A4, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B8 solutions Practical and subject specific skills Investigate current audit issues and apply the techniques used in the decision-making process and evaluation of A1, A5, A7, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B8 evidence Advise on the effects of taxation from a variety of personal and / or business situations A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A7, B1, B propose a research project that could effectively explore some issue related to accounting B1, B4, B Access information, networks and skills that will enable them to target and hopefully secure appropriate A1, B4, B8 accountancy orientated work placements Apply their accountancy / business knowledge and skills base within the work environment A1, A7, B4, B Initiate research activity if a suitable research project is identified B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8 Transferrable skills Utilise a variety of presentation formats to communicate. B Use information technology to retrieve, analyse and present data. B Manage time and work to deadlines. B Work independently, demonstrating self-direction. B Work effectively and constructively as part of a group. B Self appraise and reflect on the application of theory to practice B1, B2, B4, B7, B8 27

28 APPENDIX 4 KEY TO SUBJECT BENCHMARK STATEMENT Benchmark Statement for Undergraduate Programmes in Accounting 3 Subject specific knowledge and skills A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 Aspect of the Subject Benchmark Statement Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of some of the contexts in which accounting operates Demonstrate a basic knowledge, understanding and an ability to use the current technical language to describe practices of accounting and an ability to apply them in simple structured situations from given data generated for the purpose Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of some alternative technical language and practices and, where relevant within the context of a particular degree programme, an ability to apply them in simple structured situations from given data generated for the purpose With reasonable accuracy, be able to record and summarise straightforward transactions and other economic events and prepare financial statements complying in outline with relevant regulatory requirements; will be able to analyse the operations of a business and perform financial analyses and projections at a basic level Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of theories and empirical evidence concerning the effects of accounting in at least one of its contexts Where the programme has a substantial finance content, demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of theories and empirical evidence concerning financial management, risk and the operation of capital markets Demonstrate knowledge of the main current technical language and practices of accounting in the country in which the student is studying. 28

29 B Cognitive abilities and generic skills B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6 B7 B8 Aspect of the Subject Benchmark Statement Demonstrate the capacity for the critical evaluation of arguments and evidence Demonstrate the ability to analyse and draw reasoned conclusions concerning structured and, to a more limited extent, unstructured problems from a given set of data and from data which must be acquired by the student Demonstrate the ability to locate, extract and analyse data from multiple sources, including the acknowledgement and referencing of sources Demonstrate capacities for independent and self managed learning Demonstrate numeracy skills, including the ability to manipulate financial and other numerical data and to appreciate statistical concepts at an appropriate level Demonstrate skills in the use of communications and information technology in acquiring, analysing and communicating information (currently these skills include the use of spreadsheets, word processing software, online databases) Demonstrate communication skills including the ability to present quantitative and qualitative information, together with analysis, argument and commentary, in a form appropriate to the intended audience Demonstrate, normally, an ability to work in groups, and other interpersonal skills, including oral as well as written presentation skills 29